PDBu causes differentiation of the monocyte and results in adhesion of the cells within 24
hours. Cumulatively, these results suggest that activation of early signal transduction is
regulated in part by gravity.
In true microgravity (μg), significant changes were seen in gene expression of the monocyte
between activation of the μg samples and the 1-g in-flight samples. These changes in gene
expression suggest a role of gravity in regulation of immune function in human monocytes.
PUBLICATION(S)
Hughes-Fulford M, Chang TT, Li C. Effect of gravity on monocyte differentiation. 2008 Life in
Space for Life on Earth Symposium, Angers, France; 2008.
This investigation is complete and all results are published.